Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak hopes that deep-rooted relations between Malaysia and China will continue to remain strong.

In his interview with Xinhua and CCTV China, Najib said Xi's visit signalled Beijing's desire to keep up warm ties with Malaysia, which he believed will advance on a strong footing under China's new leadership.

"China has been a good friend to Malaysia for 40 years and, with the visit which begins Thursday, I hope the close ties between our two countries is reaffirmed and transcends all levels of our societies," he said.

Najib went on to say that Malaysia was seeking to enhance ties with China and tap new areas of cooperation.

"The two countries should make their relations more multi-faceted and pervasive by including more areas for cooperation, such as education, technology and finance.

"Moreover, Malaysia welcomes more Chinese investment into the country, which is an important part of bilateral cooperation," said Najib, noting that several new investment deals will be inked during Xi's visit.

President Xi Jinping of China arrived in Malaysia yesterday, for a three-day state visit, his second stop of his maiden trip to Southeast Asia after taking office in March.

Xi's visit is of utmost importance as it signals the commitment of the new Chinese leadership to maintain the longstanding friendly relations with Kuala Lumpur since the establishment of diplomatic relations 39 years ago.

Bilateral trade between China and Malaysia hit US$94.8 billion last year, with China being Malaysia's biggest trade partner for four consecutive years, and Malaysia being the biggest trade partner of China in the Asean region for the past five years.